Stellenbosch Triennale: Art for Social Change in Post-Apartheid South Africa
Launched in 2020, the Stellenbosch Triennale in Stellenbosch, South Africa, aspires to establish the city as a hub for contemporary art while fostering social inclusion. Curated by Khanyisile Mbongwa, the event aims to elevate Africa's presence in the international art scene and connect with Cape Town's artistic landscape. Despite the hurdles posed by the pandemic, the inaugural edition took place, with the "From The Vault" exhibition at the Stellenbosch University Museum remaining accessible. Featured artists included Reshma Chhiba and Stacey Gillian Abe. Mbongwa emphasized the lasting impact of Apartheid and the triennale's mission to motivate young artists. Although it did not receive government funding, there are hopes for future support and a call for improved representation in the art sector.
Key facts
- Stellenbosch Triennale launched in 2020 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa.
- Curated by Khanyisile Mbongwa.
- Aims to increase Africa's visibility in global art and foster social cohesion.
- First edition held despite pandemic; many programs canceled due to lockdown.
- Stellenbosch University Museum kept 'From The Vault' exhibition open in 2020.
- Featured artists: Stacey Gillian Abe, Reshma Chhiba, Asafo Black Artist Collective.
- Collaboration with Investec Cape Town Art Fair for shared audiences.
- No government funding received; hopes for future support.
Entities
Artists
- Khanyisile Mbongwa
- Stacey Gillian Abe
- Reshma Chhiba
- Asafo Black Artist Collective
- Mongezi Ncaphayi
- Kelvin Haizel
- Elana Brundyn
- France Beyers
- Rose Kirumira
- Andi Norton
Institutions
- Stellenbosch Triennale
- Stellenbosch University Museum
- Norval Foundation
- Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA)
- Cape Town Art Fair
- Design Indaba
- Investec Cape Town Art Fair
- Strauss & Co
- Artribune
Locations
- Stellenbosch
- Western Cape
- South Africa
- Cape Town
- Africa